Northwest Tech celebrates completion of campus mural

Goodland, KS. (12/07/2023)  – Northwest Tech and the Goodland Ambassadors celebrated the completion and official unveiling of a new campus mural on the northside of the Memorial Student Union. The idea for the project originated from college staff looking to convert some of the brickwork on campus into murals that reflects the heritage and culture of the college and the community.

This project was funded by the Kansas Department of Commerce Office of Rural Prosperity’s Rural Mural and Public Art grant program to highlight community gathering spaces and tourist attractions – and provide a welcome message for visitors and residents alike.

“The vibrancy of the mural reflects the rich history of Goodland and the High Plains and it was incredible to have students able to actually create it,” said NT President Ben Schears. “Murals not only draw people into our community, but they create a beautiful and welcoming space for our students.”

The mural was designed by Computer Graphic Technology’s instructor, Gia Brachtenbach and painted by her students. The mural features significant elements that express the character of the community with idea contributions from the Goodland Public Library, High Plains Museum, and High Plains Roosters Chapter #663.

"I am incredibly proud of my students for working diligently on this project,” said Instructor Gia Brachtenbach, “Enduring sunshine, wind, and cold to leave a lasting mark on the Northwest Tech campus for our future students and community to admire.”

Northwest Tech will continue pursuing grant opportunities to create additional artwork on campus over the coming years.